The 2023 Toyota Wigo is a reasonably new hatchback to the segment; its seen launches across the ASEAN region, with each new version bringing something new. We have the likes of the Toyota Agya, a more basic version of the hatchback with more power, and the Perodua Axia, which retains its old 1.0-liter gasoline engine but is upgraded with better safety and more technology.

While the new Toyota hatchback is a compelling vehicle, it is still unavailable in the Philippines. However, based on its specifications abroad, we can compare it to locally available models to see how it will fair in the Philippine market.

For reference, we will be using the Toyota Agya as not only does it share the Toyota name as the locally available Wigo, but it could also come with similar specifications to the new model once it launches in the Philippines. 

We will compare the new Wigo to its local rival, the Mitsubishi Mirage (Specs | News), to see which one will come out on top regarding specifications. Does the old guard of Mitsubishi still have what it takes to face its new baby-faced Toyota foe?

Also Read: SPEC SHOWDOWN: 2023 Toyota Wigo vs. Suzuki Celerio

Exterior

It's a question of old-guard design versus new-age Toyota design language. The 2023 Toyota carries a newer design that looks closer to its sibling, the Toyota Raize (Specs | News), with its more-crossover like look. 

The vehicle gets a broader front with LED lighting elements for its higher variants, while its lower models get halogen lighting instead. 

As for its Mitsubishi Mirage rival, it gets the same design it launched initially in 2012 with a minor facelift for the 2021 model year. It does get revised styling for its headlights, taillights, grille, and bumpers, but its design remains the same as its launch version. 

If tried and trusted is what you are after, then the Mirage delivers that in boatloads. However, we can’t deny that you are a much older design with the hatchback compared to the newer look of its rival, the 2023 Wigo. 

So, regarding appearance and exterior features, the Wigo has the edge over its Mitsubishi rival. 

Interior and tech

Like their exterior designs, it's a comparison between new and old. The 2023 Toyota Wigo has a more updated cabin that features design elements similar to the Toyota Raize with a horizontal orientation. Its dashboard is also multi-layered and looks more modern with its angular accents. 

The 2023 Wigo has a more modern interior; the Toyota hatchback also has more technology, such as a digital instrument cluster from the Raize and a 9-inch infotainment system. While it's unclear if the Infotainment system has Apple CarPlay or Android Auto capabilities, we know it comes with Bluetooth and USB connectivity. 

In the case of the Mitsubishi Mirage, its interior layout remains essentially the same as its launch version. It has durable plastics for its interior and analog gauge cluster. Mitsubishi has updated the infotainment system. Unfortunately, no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto capabilities are available. 

Overall, both vehicles are roughly the same regarding their interior specifications, with the Wigo just ahead by a hair as it has a more modern design.

Safety

Safety is on par for both vehicles as they adhere to the industry standards of safety features. Both hatchbacks come with ABS and dual front airbags, just to name a few. While the 2023 Toyota Wigo lacks the active safety suite of features found in its cousin, the Daihatsu Axia, it's still a safe vehicle to purchase.

Speaking of safety, the Perodua Axia has a 4-star safety rating from the ASEAN NCAP, which makes it one of the safer hatchbacks to buy in the ASEAN region. The Mirage also has a similar safety rating. However, it was taken back in 2014 under less stringent testing protocols. 

Power

Under the hood, both vehicles are powered by 1.2-liter 3-cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engines. The only difference between the two hatchbacks is that one only has a CVT as its available gearbox while the other has a CVT as well and a 5-speed manual transmission available. 

Power for the new Wigo comes in at 88 PS and 138 Nm of torque, while the motor of the Mirage produces 78 PS and 100 Nm of torque. 

The numbers don’t lie, as the new Wigo is the more powerful of the two vehicles. However, we do have to note that the Toyota hatchback is bigger than its Mitsubishi rival, meaning it has more metal to carry around.

Unfortunately, no fuel economy figures are available yet for the new Wigo, so we have to wait for those numbers to see if the new Toyota can beat the Mitsubishi’s legendary fuel economy. 

Verdict

New is better in this comparison, but the Mitsubishi Mirage still offers you a lot for its relatively basic platform. While you don’t get all the bells and whistles with the 2023 Toyota Wigo compared to its Daihatsu counterpart, it's still a good car, especially with its more powerful 1.2-liter engine. 

It ultimately boils down to your preference; the 2023 Toyota Wigo/ Toyota Agya offers you a newer body, a more powerful engine, and newer technology. On the other hand, the Mitsubishi Mirage offers you tried and tested technology with famous fuel efficiency.

As there are no fuel efficiency numbers for the new Wigo as of press time, only time will tell if it can beat its Mitsubishi Rival.